Health authorities are urging Western Plains residents to get the jab against Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV) as 60 local government areas are flagged for higher risk. The vaccine is free in all 11 western plains shires for people aged two months or older who live or work there. The mosquito-borne virus can cause rare but serious conditions like headaches, fever, vomiting and brain swelling. Last week, JEV was detected for the first time in the 2025-2026 season in mosquitoes collected from the Horsham Rural City Council region in Victoria. “Mosquito numbers will likely increase with warmer weather, and we remind everyone in NSW to protect themselves against mosquito bites, which can cause diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis and Murray Valley Encephalitis, and infection with Kunjin virus, Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus," said Dr Stephen Conaty, who is NSW Health's Director for Health Protection. The vaccine is available through General Practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. Once fully vaccinated, it can take between 2 to 4 weeks for the body to develop its immune response to the disease. [IMAGE: Animalia]Authorities say that people who meet the eligibility criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let the provider know it is for the JEV jab. They say providers may need a few days’ notice to order supply and may charge a consultation fee. Authorities are also warning about another mosquito-borne virus, Kunjin, which was detected in Cowra through a chicken blood sample on 20 November 2025.Mosquito-borne diseases cannot be transmitted directly between humans or from any other animal.During the mosquito season In 2022, NSW Health set up vaccine clinics dedicated to JEV across the Western Plains. NSW Health has so far not announced the same measure this time around.Besides the injection, avoiding mozzie bites is the best way to go. Below is a list from NSW Health of ways to protect yourself. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and covered footwear Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas) Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions Use an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting to protect infants aged less than three months, secured along the edges While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net

Bring a chair and bundle a picnic rug to binge the fireworks at Warren's annual Christmas party tonight, Friday 5 November. The free fun-for-all will have jumping castles, a giant slide and an inflatable obstacle course for the kids, plus a 7pm visit by Santas via golf cart. For the first time, the magic will take place at Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct near the local splash park, where daytime temperatures are expected to reach 39 degrees. "Bring your family. Come and enjoy the evening and get with the community," Warren Shire Council's Bec Christian said. "This year is a lot of local people have stepped up and are doing market and food stalls, which we haven't had previously. "It will be a wonderful opportunity to support local makers, enjoy a warm summer evening, and celebrate the festive season."Dancers will again take the stage at the party at the sports precinct. [IMAGE: Warren Shire Council] The fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:15pm. The suitably-named Ms Christian said circus entertainers from Sydney will rove through the crowd in glow-in-the dark costumes. The event will also feature dances from local groups Dance Experience and Warraan Widji Arts, along with Sydney blues group Stevn Edmonds Band. The splash park will open from 6pm, followed by a 7pm visit from Santa via golf cart- a Warren tradition.  Bar facilities will be on site, where Ms Christian said organisers expect around 500 to 600 people. There will also be a barbeque and chocolate wheel. "The event is shaping up to be a memorable evening for the Warren community," Ms Christian said. "We got the new facility there that we opened end of last year, and just thought why not utilize splash park for the kids?" Warren Shire opened the new facilities in December 2024, while include a canteen and male and female changerooms.

Year 12 Condobolin High School student Jonah Grimshaw will take to the podium tomorrow at the Parliament of NSW to represent his hometown of Condo in the finals of the 2025 Regional Public Speaking Competition.One of only six students to compete, Jonah says despite being a bit nervous, his mum said he should be right as he’s a good talker.“I was lucky enough to take out the regional round of Public Speaking at Orange where I spoke for six minutes about how climate change and natural disasters had impacted my town and the people in and around it,” said Jonah.“We were given six subjects to speak about, which were all pretty broad, and this allowed us to speak about anything. The one I chose personally was ‘My hope for NSW’ and I was the only one who selected that topic.“At the finals on Friday I will be speaking about Drought and how it has affected farmers in our area and how we produce our crops and all our products and how it has affected the economy of Condobolin.“This subject has impacted so many people and really needs to be spoken about.Jonah pictured at NSW Parliament [Image supplied]Jonah is aiming to attend Macquarie University next year to do a double degree of Astrophysics and Stage Pro.“These are two very different things, but I want to focus on Astrophysics and because of the intensity of it I need something to offset that and I love music, so it seemed like a good idea. “Looking at numbers and figures all day would be mind blowing so this will allow me a chance to get away from that,” laughed Jonah.Following Jonah’s six-minute speech, all entrants are then given a list of six topics and a span of fifteen minutes to come up with an Impromptu speech, which is then delivered to the judges and audience. “Usually, these speech topics are incredibly broad, so I could be speaking about anything as long as it is loosely related to the subject topic. According to Jonah the principal of Condobolin High School is ecstatic. Jonah Grimshaw pictured at Parliament House [Image supplied]“Our principal is an English teacher and is really excited for me as it’s my first time at public speaking so I have been incredibly lucky.“Mum says I have the gift of the gab, and I don’t stop talking so I should be right, the hardest part for me will be stopping,” laughed Jonah.“Whatever happens it is all good. For a bush kid to get there in the first place and to be one of six in the state is pretty good so I am just happy for the experience,” said Jonah.The finals get underway at 11am tomorrow, Friday 5 December.

Two men were taken to hospital on Tuesday 2 December after a utility rolled just north of Burren Junction. The NSW Police Media Unit said that a Toyota LandCruiser was approaching the Kamilaroi Highway on Merrywinebone Road when it reportedly swerved to avoid a kangaroo and lost control. NSW Ambulance say they received the callout to the incident at around 10:15pm and treated one man in his twenties for multiple injuries, including to his head and limbs. He was taken by road to Wee Waa, where the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service say he was stabilised and airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. A second man in his twenties was taken to hospital in Narrabri for head injuries and abrasions to his arms and legs.

The company in charge of the transmission lines for the large roll out of the Central West Energy Zone has come under criticism from several quarters. From politicians to environmentalists and wild life rescue, concerns have been raised over work to date by Sydney-based civil engineering company ACEREZ on the REZ network. This week ACEREZ has been criticised for clearing the roadside vegetation along Merotherie Road outside of Gulgong in preparation for the first of the 240-kilometre transmission line which runs through a number of local government areas. Animal Rescue group WIRES was called in to help up to 60 tiny new born birds who were evicted from their habitat when trees were torn down. The birds are being looked after at Mudgee Vet Hospital and Taronga Western Plains Zoo at Dubbo. Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee has written to NSW Premier Chris Minns, saying he is devastated by the clearance of more than 600 native trees on Merotherie Road and the baby birds taken from their habitat. "How many more were lost, we’ll never know," he said."There was no need to bulldoze these old trees. ‘’It all could have been avoided if EnergyCo had put in a new road on land it owns/controls just over the fence from where the trees once were. "The NSW Premier needs to step in and stop this shocking vandalism.’’One of the de-homed baby birds now in care. [IMAGE: A Gee MP] ACEREZ was appointed network operator by EnergyCo.Their role is to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the Central-West Orana REZ transmission network. Energyco redirected our questions to ACEREZ saying they were responsible. ‘’Communities across the country are fighting projects like these, and it’s only going to get worse under the Labor Government’s renewables-only approach to achieving net zero," said Jamie Chaffey Federal Member for Parkes after community forums about the region's renewable energy rollout in Dunedoo and Dubbo on Saturday 29 November. "There is a cheaper, better and fairer way that does not destroy our farmland or our environment," Chaffey said.“Residents are looking at hundreds of kilometres of new transmission lines, and massive wind, solar and battery projects."All of this disruption is for no benefit – our prices continue to increase and our emissions reduction has stalled." In a statement to the Western Plains App ACEREZ said it is working to comply with community standards. “ACEREZ is liaising with WIRES and working with carers to care for any birds displaced by clearing required for the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone transmission project. “The required vegetation clearing is taking place on private property in accordance with the project’s Environmental Impact Statement, Planning Approval and Biodiversity Management Plan. “Ecologists and fauna spotters are also onsite to ensure the birds can be safely relocated or taken to vets or wildlife carers.” They say ecologists complete a pre-clearing survey of work areas to identify habitat features prior to any clearing taking place. "When habitat features are required to be removed, a two-stage process is carried out under the guidance of fauna spotters to ensure displaced fauna can be safely relocated or taken to vets or wildlife carers. "Where possible, hollow-bearing sections of habitat trees are cut and erected on site with young fauna placed back into their original hollow. "The ecology team monitors each of these hollows to ensure parents return."

Warren’s Holly Campbell has earned a spot on the 2026 World Cross Country team representing Australia.Holly who spent a lot of time running around her parent’s property as a kid, has reaped the rewards with a second-place finish at the 2026 World Cross Country Championships Selection Trials at Stromlo Forest Park in Canberra.Her hard work and dedication has earned her a spot on the team to compete in next year’s World Event in the Open Women’s 10km event in the USA.With only a 36-second time difference from first to second place, well-known distance runner Leanne Pompeani took out first place in the event with Holly hot on her heels.Clocking a time of 34.17, Holly is no stranger to the gruelling event, having run it several times before, and says she really wanted to do well this year.Holly Campbell of Warren will be a part of the coveted Australian Team for the 2026 event [Image Athletics Australia]“I was very happy with my result at the World Cross Country Trial,” said Holly.“I’d had my eyes on making the team for a while and was relieved to gain automatic selection rather than waiting to be picked at the discretion of the selectors.“My race results haven’t been fantastic this year and I’ve been working hard to try and turn things around by making a few changes to my training.“I had a small injury pop up in the two weeks before the race which was a little challenging but helped me to learn the power of a bit of positive thinking and being able to adapt the plan."Holly said she is excited to make the team and really looking forward to the event next year.Hard work and dedication paying off for Holly Campbell [Image Athletics Australia]Supporters from her local athletics club, her hometown of Warren and Athletics Australia took to social media with messages of congratulations.“I’m super proud to make the team and looking forward to representing Australia in the States in January.“I’m proud to look back and think about how far I have come since I was a little kid running around the farm and am so grateful for the opportunities that running has given me,” Holly said.

Work has begun to replace two aging pump stations supplying drinking water to Cobar. The NSW government says the stations at Nyngan and Hermidale will have remote monitoring and boost operator safety under the roughly $50 million project. They said contractor SRG Global Utilities (formerly Diona) is expected to complete both stations by mid-2027. “By replacing the old stations at Nyngan and Hermidale with modern facilities, we are ensuring water can continue to flow safely and reliably now and into the future," NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson said. "Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to meet with Council and visit the sites in person to gain a better understanding of the project and the importance of the pump stations in supporting safe and secure water for Cobar."The Australian government is providing about $26 million for the project, while their NSW counterparts are forking out around $23 million.  The soon-to-be-former pump site in Bogan shire. [IMAGE: NSW Government]Cobar does not have its own water source and relies on two 130-kilometre parallel pipelines to bring supply from Nyngan. The older line was built in 1964 and suffers from increasing failures due to corrosion, according to a report released by the NSW government in 2025.  The report said the younger line, built in 1983, is experiencing some "localised" corrosion and occasional failures, but is in good condition. It estimates a remaining service life of up to 50 years for the 1983 line, and that continued maintenance of both pipes will secure safe supply for more than a decade. Work to replace 30 kilometres of the 1964 line near Nyngan was completed in 2018, however the government paused plans for the remaining 100 kilometres because of projected costs. The report estimated that the "nominal" cost for the pipeline would be $329 million. Now the Cobar Water Board, a statutory body responsible for maintaining water supply in the area, is spending $300,000 for a separate review of the pipes' condition.Board secretary Peter Vlatko says he hopes the report from water consultant Sequana will persuade the NSW government to invest in the upgrades. "It's an expensive exercise to prove a point, but it is important that we do this so that we can justify the requirements for this pipeline to be upgraded," said Mr Vlatko, who is also the General Manager of Cobar Shire Council. "We'll have a proper assessment done independently. "We're still committed to ensure that the government gets all the information they need to help us resolve this once and for all." He said assessors will look at about 100 spots along the pipeline. He also said the review is scheduled to begin in February 2026 and be completed by late February-early March. 

The chair of Australia's peak trucking body has welcomed a decision by the federal government to shelve a proposed limit reduce limits on roads with no sign-posted speed. The Australian Trucking Association's Mark Parry says the proposal, which would have cut default limits by up to 30km/h, would increase freight times. Mr Parry said that he supports more targeted speed reductions in problem areas, along with road signage, education and fixing mobile black spots, as the government is forced to look at other ways to rein in road trauma."What we found particularly in the transport industry is that appropriate licensing, appropriate training, the use of technology now in trucks, is becoming very good," Mr Parry said. "I think various media campaigns over the years have been very effective. Like slowing down, stopping and resting before you're tired. "The truck industry is very regulated in those areas, and that's overseen by not only the police but the NHVR (National Heavy Vehicle Regulator). "I don't think there's a silver bullet to these things."Opponents argued that road maintenance and upgrades are a bigger safety priority than lowering default speed limits on roads without signage. [IMAGE: River McCrossen]Mr Parry also singled out road improvements and modern vehicle safety features to tackle deaths and serious injuries, which was the main reason the federal government proposed the speed reductions. He also suggested that fatalities, which increased from 1097 in 2020 to 1292 in 2024, may be rising with population growth. There have been over 50 deaths by car accidents in the Western Plains since 2020. Fifteen of those were around the Warrumbungle area, with 11 around Narromine. Under the 2021-2030 National Road Safety Strategy, Australian governments aim to halve the number of national road fatalities by the end of the decade, then to zero by 2050. A government consultation paper modelled that reducing the speed to 70km/h could avoid 401 deaths on sealed roads and 123 on unsealed roads across Australia each year. However, local councils, industry groups, politicians and the Country Mayors Association opposed the proposal, saying it would unnecessarily increase travel times. READ: Inquiry to seek real solutions to regional road deathsAfter a meeting with her state and counterparts, federal transport minister Catherine King said in a joint statement on 21 November that "no further work" was underway on the proposal. The statement noted feedback during a consultation period, and that the states and territories are responsible for setting speed limits. National Roads and Motorists' Association (NRMA) spokesperson Peter Khoury also welcomed the government's withdrawal. He said that speed changes on particular roads need to account for evidence including crash history, traffic volumes and road engineering and quality.  He also said the association wants more information to be publicly available from road crash investigations. "What we want to see is a standard approach to those investigations which is referred to in the industry as a 'no-blame' investigation," Mr Khoury said. "What they would do is they would look specifically at the cause - or causes - of that crash and then make that information publicly available. "Was it speeding? Were there other factors? Was the car doing 102km/h in a 100km/h zone - which might be deemed speeding - but there were other factors at play? "Once you start to develop a better understanding of the causes of these crashes, then you can start to make decisions that will drive better outcomes." Transport for NSW has an interactive map which includes whether speed and fatigue were a factor in individual crashes, although it doesn't go into much greater detail regarding cause. Barwon MP Roy Butler, who raised a petition against the proposal, said NSW roads minister Jenny Aitchison spoke against the reduction to the federal government. "I thank Minister Aitchison for paying attention to the results of my petition and listening to country people when we say that lower speed limits would reduce our quality of life," Mr Butler said. "I congratulate those who took the time to add their signature to my petition; together, we have shown our strength and managed to block this damaging proposal."

Brewarrina, Lachlan and Warrumbungle councils have secured hundreds of thousands of dollars from the NSW government to upgrade drinking water treatment in four towns. Treatment plants in Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo, Brewarrina and Coonabarabran each have $150,000 to spend on activities including training for plant operators. The NSW government formally announced the grants on Friday 21 November for 18 regional and rural councils under the Advanced Operational Support program (AOS).“The dedicated funding for water treatment operator training means our team will be better equipped to manage and maintain the quality of our local water supply,” Brewarrina Shire General Manager David Kirby said in his council's own announcement on the funding in October. "With improved skills and knowledge, operators can respond more effectively to challenges, implement best practices and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.“For residents, this means greater confidence in the safety and reliability of our drinking water. For Council, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to public health and wellbeing."Brewarrina sources drinking water from the Barwon River. IMAGE: River McCrossenThe program began in 2023 and is aimed at boosting public health by reducing water risks. In its second phase, it has funded projects for plants in Coonamble, Lightning Ridge, Collarenebri, Bourke and Cobar.  The program was extended under a third phase from July 2025 to June 2028, and is set to support plants in another 20 locations. An extra $2 million for phase three will also fund new monitoring equipment, upgraded filters and system automation to help councils act quicker on potential water quality issues.Warrumbungle Shire's Director of Development Services, Leeanne Ryan, said her council will use the money for "instrumentation services" and automation upgrades.She said phase three was the first time the shire has received funding for the program after they were unsuccessful with previous applications."It will allow Council to monitor the quality of water 24/7 via the existing online telemetry system," Ms Ryan said."If there are any issues with quality Council staff will be instantly alarmed and can respond to issues ensuring high-quality water is supplied to our community all day every day."Lachlan Shire said they will also use their grants to train water treatment operators. "Lake Cargelligo and Condobolin are vital water supplies for our communities, and improved operational support will help strengthen these systems," said Lachlan Shire mayor John Medcalf said. "This high level of technical assistance is crucial for long-term planning. Anything that helps secure safe and reliable drinking water for our communities is a positive step and Council looks forward to working with the Department as this support is implemented." NSW water minister Rose Jackson said the program will give operators skills they need to problem solve water issues. "Infrastructure is one piece of the puzzle but on-the-ground operational support is also extremely valuable," she said. "We know regional towns need a leg up to get the most out of their water treatment plants and lock-in a clean, dependable water supply."

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is urging farmers, contractors and rural businesses to double-check their pesticide licences and training as a new compliance blitz begins across the northwest.With spray season underway, EPA officers will inspect operators in Moree, Walgett, Narrabri, Brewarrina, Warren, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Gunnedah and surrounding districts to ensure anyone applying commercial pesticides is properly accredited.EPA Director of Operations Scott Kidd said the agency had received increasing reports of unlicensed operators carrying out pesticide and herbicide spraying across NSW.“We know how important pesticides and herbicides are for crop yields and pest control, but these chemicals must be used safely and according to the label to prevent impacts on off-target plants and animals,” Mr Kidd said.“Safe spraying isn’t just good news for the environment and your neighbours; it can also save you money and time by making sure these chemicals are only used for their intended purpose.“If you’re using pesticides, you need to check if you require a licence or accredited training, including follow-up refresher courses every five years.“If you’re hiring out for bigger jobs, you should only be paying an operator who is fully licensed and accredited to avoid the risk of damage.”Who needs a licence?Under NSW law:Farmers or employees using pesticides on the ground on their own land—or a family member’s land—do not need a licence.This includes using aluminium phosphide tablets or chloropicrin for vertebrate or invertebrate pest control.However, they must complete an initial pesticide training course and refresh that training every five years, unless covered by an EPA-approved industry quality assurance scheme.If you use pesticides on a farm, in a market garden or for production horticulture, you must undertake special training, use and dispose of all pesticides safely, and keep proper records.The EPA issues pesticide control orders for certain high risk pesticides to more specifically regulate their use or application.Note that if you use pindone or 1080, you must undertake special training.Anyone applying pesticides from an aircraft, including drones and helicopters, must hold licences from both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the EPA, and must complete the required pesticide training.Operators who spray pesticides for a fee or as a service require a Ground Applicator Licence.People who use pesticides in agricultural operations must complete recognised training every five years unless they qualify for a small-use exemption.Landholders and businesses can search the EPA’s Public Register to check whether a contractor’s licence is current, what type they hold, and whether they meet legal requirements.Summer spraying adviceTo reduce the risk of damage this season, the EPA is urging all pesticide users to take extra care, starting with reading and following the product label, keeping accurate spray records, checking weather conditions before and during application, and making sure they have the appropriate training for the chemicals they are using.The agency also emphasises the importance of ensuring that anyone hired to carry out spraying is fully licensed and accredited.The EPA is reminding landholders that all commercial spray operators must hold a current Ground Applicator Licence, and anyone using pesticides should confirm whether training or licensing applies to their situation before the summer spray period intensifies.Mr Kidd said unlicensed operators were a growing concern in the northwest, and urged the community to help reduce the risk of off-target damage.“If you’re hiring out for bigger jobs, you should only be paying an operator who is fully licensed to avoid the risk of damage,” he said.Anyone wanting to confirm a contractor’s status can use the EPA’s online tool to check whether a person or business holds the correct licence, what type it is, and whether it is up to date.Check a pesticide licence here.

NSW hospitals are continuing to feel the strain of an unusually long influenza season, with health authorities urging people to protect themselves as case numbers rise well into November and beyond.More than 370 people presented to emergency departments across the state with an influenza-like illness in the week ending 16 November.Health authorities warn that the true number of infections is far higher, with most people who contract flu never being tested.“This time of year is usually when our hospitals and our staff get respite from the burden of respiratory illness, but this is not the case,” Mr Park said.“Instead we are seeing sustained pressure on our EDs and on the staff who work there and across the wards.”The latest NSW Health respiratory surveillance report shows influenza remains unusually prevalent in the community for late spring.More than 3,100 influenza cases were notified in the week ending 15 November - the second consecutive weekly increase and similar to levels seen at the beginning of winter.NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the state was experiencing “a longer tail” to the respiratory illness season than normal.“Usually by September or early October influenza levels have tapered to quite low levels from the peak, which traditionally occurs during winter – but we are well into November and notifications are increasing,” she said at the time.A person with the flu can be contagious for up to a week after symptoms start, and can also spread the virus for a day before they show any symptoms at all.The extended season is expected to continue placing pressure on emergency departments into December, a time when Christmas and end-of-year gatherings typically increase the risk of spread.“My worry, and the worry of our health experts, is that we’re seeing an increase at a time of year where people are rightfully getting together to celebrate – but the last gift we want to be giving each other is a dose of influenza,” Mr Park said.People with mild illness, including influenza, are encouraged to use Healthdirect (1800 022 222) rather than attending an emergency department.The 24-hour service connects callers with a nurse, who can organise a video consult with a doctor, nurse or allied health professional if needed.Healthdirect has logged more than 50,000 calls from people reporting respiratory symptoms during the extended flu period, with over 65 per cent of those callers safely managed through alternative care pathways.Dr Chant urged people to take preventive steps as the season drags on.“No one wants influenza, or any respiratory illness for that matter, to ruin the end of their year,” she said.“It’s not too late to get vaccinated."If you are sick, please stay home, and wear a mask if you need to go out, to help stop the spread.”She also encouraged people at higher risk of complications to have a plan in place with their GP, including access to antiviral medication if needed.For more information on respiratory illness or to book a flu vaccination, visit the NSW Health respiratory information page.

Three local councils have launched a new project to help drought-proof their communities. The Country Heartline Project links visitors on a website to tourism drawcards throughout the Coonamble, Warren and Bogan shires, and provides a step-by-step guide for agri-tourism starters. Council leaders and agritourism operators marked the launch at Buddabadah farm stay Callubri Station on Thursday 20 November.“Together, they [the councils] are creating real, on-the-ground opportunities for our farmers, families and communities to thrive — even when the rain doesn’t fall," said Project Lead Susan Balogh, who's also Warren Shire's Economic Development & Visitation Manager. “Country Heartline is about opening our gates and sharing the rhythm of life on the land. It gives visitors the chance to feed a lamb, camp beneath a sky full of stars or see harvest through a farmer’s eyes. “Most importantly, it supports new income streams that fit alongside farm life — helping keep businesses going, food on the table and stock fed when the seasons are tough.”Susie Balogh reports to attendees at the launch at Buddabadah. [IMAGE: supplied] The website maps farming, cultural and natural attractions like the iconic 'Big Bogan' statue in Nygnan and the Burrima Boardwalk in the Macquarie Marshes. It also promotes farm stay and other tourism experiences throughout the three shires, with photos and videos making the most of the country landscape. The project aims to help local operators catch 40 million hits each year on the Visit NSW website.It will also work to lure of the some of the 15,000 travellers on their way to the Mundi Mundi Bash in Broken Hill, and draw regional and international visitors. A panel discussion involving Justine Campbell (Regional Development Australia Orana), Angela Shepherd (Department of Regional NSW), Jamie Lea Trindall (Outback Arts) and Lucy White (Destination Country and Outback NSW) highlighted the well of talent and natural assets Country Heartline can draw on. Attention turned to the all-important next steps, and how the shires' can work together to open the door for more visitors. "It's about telling our unique stories to sell our region," the panel said. "People underestimate their own story. "Go and see each other, connect to a network and support each other. "The tourism industry is big on sharing."Nyngan's 'Big Bogan. [IMAGE: River McCrossen] The event closed with a call to people already operating visitor-facing businesses in the shires - or who are thinking of diversifying -to get involved. "Ask for help," launch host Angie Armstrong said. "We all need people who say 'What do you want to do? How can we make it happen?'" The first phase of the project was funded by the NSW Government's Regional Drought Resilience Program."We think we can sell Country Heartline in the drought," said Lucy White, General Manager at Destination Network Country and Outback NSW "There's room for more, there's room for all. "There's no such thing as being too successful. "Being spoiled for choice is the best position to be in."The first phase of the Country Heartline project was funded by the NSW Government's Regional Drought Resilience Program.

Wild winds could hamper fire fighters from Gilgandra and others RFS crews who are battling a blaze in the Gonoo State Conversation area in the Warrumbungle Shire.‘’There are 79 crew working on this over 1,426 hectares including our team from Gil and while its advice status for now with spot fires being doused we are wary because of the winds,’ a spokesperson from the Rural Fire Service told the Western Plains App today (Monday 1 December).The fire is burning on both private property and within the Goonoo State Conservation area.Winds today are expected to continue pushing the fire in an easterly and north easterly direction towards Boomley Road and the rail line.The fire is approximately 1426 hectares in size and is not yet controlled."If conditions allow, firefighters may undertake backburning operations to strengthen containment lines," the spokesperson explained."This will result in increased smoke and fire activity. "An aircraft was deployed and helped with dampening the outbreak."The fire has burned since Thursday 27 November when a truck crashed near Dunedoo. It sparked fires which were initially extinguished but some parts of the blaze did burn property.A driver from Bathurst was tragically killed in the blaze after his B-double hit an embankment. The Rural Fire Service spokesperson said People in the area of Boomley Road should stay alert and monitor your surroundings. Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.This means looking out for burning embers, changes in wind direction and smoke. Watch for signs of fire in your area.Know what you will do if the fire impacts on where you are. Identify a safer location in case the situation changes. This may include a well cleared area or a solid structure such as a home.If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving early is the safest option.If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.

The Coonabarabran Times is facing an uncertain future as the paper issues a "last call" for a new owner to step forward. An editorial published in the Times'  27 November edition said the paper will go on "extended leave" after this year's final run on Thursday, 18 December. "But whether the Coonabarabran Times returns depends entirely on whether someone steps forward," manager Lynne Estens said."Our hope - our plea - is that someone with energy, curiosity and a commitment to telling the stories of this district will recognise the value of what has been built and ensure it continues." "If the Times falls silent, a whole community loses its voice. If you - or someone you know - feels called to this work, please reach out. The future of the Coonabarabran Times depends on it." The paper was founded in 1927 as a merger of The Bligh Watchman (1877-1927) and The Clarion (1910-1927). Late owner Max Estens joined the Times in 1978 as an 18-year-old apprentice compositor, responsible for arranging text and images for print.The Coonabarabran Times has been reporting on fires, droughts floods and milestones in the Warrumbungle area for decades. [IMAGE: River McCrossen] His wife, Lynne joined him two decades later, and together they ran the paper from 2010. Their daughter Kait Britton took the reins as editor in 2020. In October this year, the team took the most wins at the NSW Country Press Awards, a few months after Max passed. One of the awards was for an article penned by Kait following the alleged murder of two Coonabarabran boys at the hands of their grandmother in May. While the paper has regular contract advertisers, part-time and full-time contributors and publishes the magazine Wattle, Lynne said the loss of Max had taken the wind out of them. "For Max, and for all of us, this paper was never just a business - it was a commitment to this district," Lynne wrote in her editorial. "Max's recent passing has left us shell-shocked, feeling flat and struggling to find the motivation that once came so easily. Making decisions about the future of the paper without him has been incredibly difficult. "But even in this grief, we know how much the Times means to the people it serves - and that belief has strengthened our resolve to try to see it continue - because its story is bigger than ours." The Coonabarabran Times publishes 1100 copies each Thursday, which are distributed across the whole of the Warrumbungle Shire, including the towns of Coonabarabran, Binnaway, Baradine, Coolah, Dunedoo and Mendooran.

Two teenage boys have been charged following an alleged home invasion in Collarenebri on Sunday 30 November. Police say they were called to a house on Herbert Street at about 11:40am, where they were told a boy allegedly entered the home, assaulted a 85-year-old occupant and stole his car key. A police spokesperson said the boy then allegedly left the scene in the man’s vehicle before police got there. "A short time later, police stopped the vehicle on Queen Street, Collarenebri," the spokesperson said. "The two occupants – boys aged 15 and 16 – ran from the vehicle. "They were arrested nearby following a foot pursuit and taken to Walgett Police Station."Walgett Police Station. [IMAGE: River McCrossen] The spokesperson said the 16-year-old boy was charged with break and enter and stealing offences, and driving without ever being licensed. He was refused bail to appear before a children’s court today (Monday 1 December). The 15-year-old boy was charged with riding in a vehicle taken without the owner's consent. He was granted conditional bail to appear before a children’s court on Monday 8 December.

Families in Walgett, Warren, Brewarrina and Bourke are among those receiving a pre-Christmas leg up with over 3000 hampers to be delivered across inland NSW. The packages include tinned ham, coffee, long-life milk, tea, custard and Christmas pudding, which travelled from Sydney to Dubbo via an Australian Army Reserve convoy on 22 November. Groups from surrounding areas have gathered at the distribution point at Apex Oval to drive them the rest of the way. "My philosophy has always been that nobody should be too poor, or too lonely or on the outside to enjoy Christmas like everybody else," said Reverend Bill Crews, whose foundation under his name serves free meals for disadvantaged people. "People turned up from everywhere with trucks and utes and God knows what to collect them." Trangie, Lake Cargelligo, Murrin Bridge and Wagga Wagga are also among up to 30 towns where the hampers will be distributed.The distribution used to happen in Peak Hill, but moved this year to Dubbo after organiser Aunty Ronda Towney passed. [IMAGE: Dubbo] Rev. Crews said his foundation began sending the hampers during the COVID pandemic after a tap on the shoulder from Peak Hill's Aunty Ronda Towney. She used her personal networks throughout western NSW to identify need in towns and organise locals to collect the hampers. Aunty Ronda passed in July this year, but her family say they will continue her legacy through the charity she founded, Yindyamarra Aboriginal Services. "She talked on different levels to be able to get things done," Aunty Ronda's son David said. "She's a person who culturally knows all the families, all our mobs, the last names and where they're from and what rivers they belong to. Mum could go right back to the 1800s. "Then she was able to talk all the big business with Rev. Bill Crews and his foundation." Rev. Crews said they expect to increase the number of hampers distributed next year. The Army also uses the distribution as a training exercise. Yindyamarra Aboriginal Services organiser Nicole Beaver said the drive will not hurt retailers in small-town economies. "They're not huge hampers. They're not fresh fruit or vegetables, not anything that would take away from local businesses," she said. "The hampers just hold a few items that bring Christmas cheer."

According to Roy Morgan research, 58 per cent of Australians aged 14+ (about 13.2 million people) donated to charity in the year to June 2025.Research shows that Christmas is the top time for charitable donations,From a national survey, the average donation by NSW residents was $648 in the period May 2022 to December 2023.We’re a generous lot!But how can we guarantee the money we donate goes to good use?That’s where The Life You Can Save comes in.If you’ve ever felt the pull to help but weren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone.Every act of giving begins with a spark of compassion to do something for people living with far less.The next challenge is working out where your money will do the most good.The Life You Can Save describe themselves as “a community of people who believe in taking action whose role is to help you make the most effective donations possible in the fight against extreme poverty.”The group was founded in 2013 by Peter Singer and former executive Charlie Bresler.They have compiled a list of research-backed charities working on interventions against the multidimensional factors of poverty, resulting in over $100 million being donated.The Fred Hollows Foundation has restored sight to more than 2.5 million people and has links to the Western Plains, with Mr Hollows being buried in Bourke. This charity is one where donations are used effectively, according to The Life You Can Save.According to Life You Can Save, the “evidence-driven approach means donors don’t have to guess where their contribution will have the greatest effect.”For many people, especially during the holiday season, the biggest barrier isn’t a lack of generosity - it’s uncertainty.With so many charities asking for support, how do you know your donation is reaching people in need and not being lost in overheads or ineffective programs? “With 30 per cent of annual charitable giving occurring in December alone, we want to give donors confidence and clarity to give with purpose,” said Andrea La Mesa, Co-CEO of The Life You Can Save.“Our goal is to remove the guesswork from giving and make it easier for anyone to support organisations that truly make a difference."This guide offers research-backed insights to help donors ensure their contributions create the greatest possible impact."The Life You Can Save’s team does the hard work, so donors don’t have to."They analyse the data to identify the best-proven interventions across the many causes of poverty – from preventable disease and poor nutrition to access to education and financial security."Once those interventions are identified, the organisation looks for the charities delivering them most effectively and efficiently.Impact per dollar, transparency and proven results are central to the recommendations, ensuring donors are supporting organisations that not only do good work, but do the most good possible.The result is a carefully curated list of high-impact charities and funds that anyone can use as a roadmap for their giving.Whether someone can give a little or a lot, they can feel confident their contribution is helping the people who need it most, in the best-known ways available.And the work doesn’t end once a charity makes the list.Ongoing evaluation ensures the recommendations stay current as new evidence and opportunities emerge, giving donors access to best-in-class advice year after year.So, if you’re feeling that familiar tug to help this Giving Season but you’re unsure where to begin, know that you don’t have to figure it out alone.Your compassion is the starting point.The Life You Can Save is here to help turn it into the greatest possible impact for people living in extreme poverty – one thoughtful donation at a time.To find out more, visit the Life you Save website, where you can also download an audio book.

New data from the latest Jobs and Skills Report has confirmed the growing value of vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, with graduates now earning significantly more and securing stronger employment outcomes than before they commenced their studies.According to the report, VET graduates are seeing $14,100 more in median income compared to their pre-training earnings.Employment outcomes have also risen sharply, with 88 per cent of graduates employed after completing their qualification, up from 72 per cent before training.Released annually by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), the report provides a detailed analysis of the nation’s current and emerging workforce needs.This year’s findings highlight the critical importance of aligning Australia’s tertiary education system with labour market demand.JSA Commissioner Professor Barney Glover said the data underscores a major opportunity for Australia.“Understanding how well the system is delivering the skills needed for students to succeed post-training, along with other social and structural factors such as those limiting participation in the workforce, represents a huge economic opportunity,” Professor Glover said.“This plays out the same across different cohorts whether we’re talking First Nations people, young people, people with disability - we want to see Australian employers leaning into this untapped potential for their own benefit.”The report also highlights major changes underway in the national labour market.“Australia’s labour market is experiencing tremendous upheaval as we continue to transition to a service economy and external forces like artificial intelligence impact the way we live, work and learn,” he said.Future trends revealedThe Jobs and Skills Report highlighted some interesting changes.Workforce participation has increased, largely driven by increased participation from women and mature aged people. Over the last 10 years, Australian industry composition has shifted: +886,700 workers in health Care and Social Assistance, now totalling more than 2.3 million workers. +359,700 workers in Professional, Scientific and Technical Services, now totalling 1.3 million workers. +337,800 workers in Education and Training, now totalling 1.3 million workers.Dental assistants will be in demand, according to the latest Jobs and Skills Australia report.Lower skilled roles saw modest growth, reflecting a shift toward higher skilled jobs.The report said over 90 per cent of employment growth will be in jobs requiring post-secondary qualifications.When it comes to personal service and community workers, the occupations that are projected to have the strongest employment growth over the decade are mostly those in health and care fields, with top three being Dental Assistants (26.8 per cent), Nursing Support and Personal Care Workers (24.7 per cent) and Ambulance Officers and Paramedics (22.6 per cent).AI is (probably) not the enemyArtificial intelligence is already reshaping job roles - but not always by replacing them.“While we’re seeing more evidence of augmentation than automation as a result of the introduction of artificial intelligence, it represents both a great opportunity and challenge for the next generation Australian workforce.”To help share the findings and engage with communities, Professor Glover has launched a national roadshow.The tour has included visits to every capital city, a regional event in Coffs Harbour, and an online webinar.With high school graduations having taken place across the Western Plains, young people will be considering their future options, and this roadshow might help.While all in-person events are being held in capital cities, it’s not too late for regional Australians to participate, with the online session scheduled for thisTuesday 2 December and open to anyone who registers.The online webinar will feature JSA Ministerial Advisory Board Chair Cath Bowtell and members El Gibbs and Professor Jack Beetson.Registration details for all events are available on the JSA website.The full Jobs and Skills Report is available here.

It's been a long road for the region's opal miners and they're not quite there yet in the long running battle to gain certainty around the rules governing their operations and get the industry back on track.Kavitha Barron of The Lightning Ridge Miners’ Association (LRMA) says her group has a meeting with the NSW Mining, Geoscience and Exploration Department within weeks.On 8 November the NSW Government released their response to the Independent Review into Small Scale Minerals Titles that was tabled in December 2024.It includes new legislation which will have both immediate and long-term impacts for miners in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.Although the drawn-out process is taking its toll on members, the LRMA says they will take their time to comb through what is being proposed. Ms Barron says the NSW Government's response, together with any draft legislation will need to be carefully reviewed by the Association over the next few months. ‘’We acknowledge the NSW Government's refresh of the regulatory environment for small scale opal mining titles in NSW," she said."Particularly, the Association acknowledges the way in which the NSW Government has engaged with key stakeholders during the process."There are certainly some positive changes proposed as part of the review but there are also some recommendations which will be very challenging for the future of the industry in NSW."Miners have lost considerable money with what she says are ‘huge delays’ in getting approval for claims. "It is taking weeks to get things done in this space and its heart breaking for some miners with delays of weeks in some cases, 7 days is best case scenario,’’ she told The Western Plains App."There is always a devil in the detail and it's about the implementation of government plans and the number of claims we can present so a shorter time frame can move things forward. "These are challenging issues for us.''The local mining association members say they are grateful to state MP Roy Butler for helping to guide the process so that opal miners in the region were heard."Mr Butler has been very supportive and organised consultations for us so we could tell our story to the State Minister so this can be a fit and proper policy for our community and business and we can also find where our miners can prospect," Ms Barron said. She says involving her association, and stakeholders in the wider industry, is recognition of the industry's contribution to regional communities, the state and nation.‘’The Lightning Ridge Miners’ Association, with its 1000 strong members, has been advocating for the opal industry for the past 50 years. "Today the industry stands at the core of ancillary industries providing employment to over 1000 individuals whilst attracting tens of thousands of tourists who help create a robust tourism sector. "The NSW Opal Industry also plays a major role on the global market not only as Australia’s national gemstone but also as the only source of ethically mined gem quality Black Opal in the world. ‘’ Ms Barron said. ‘’The LRMA looks forward to continuing to work closely with the NSW Government to ensure opal mining and the other industries it supports continue to contribute strongly to the NSW regional economy and its growth on the world stage.’’The NSW Resources Minister Courtney Houssos says the consultation with miners, farmers and with state MP Roy Butler and Barwon MLC Steven Lawrence is giving her confidence in all parties achieving positive outcomes.